SUBJECT

SUBJECT

Identification

Ciborium of the Euphrasian Basilica, Poreč – Wall mosaic decoration

Iconographic description

This is a structure with a square layout and four marble columns supporting the same number of capitals of different shapes, some of which look like those from the basilica. An inscription on the western side of the stone cornice around the Annunciation scene attests that the ciborium was placed in 1272, as ordered by Otto, the Bishop of Poreč. This side of the ciborium is undoubtedly the most interesting, being the most visibly accessible. Here, the Annunciation scene is depicted, the same as the one decorating the Euphrasian basilica's central apse. The different sides of the ciborium host medallions depicting saints with their names inscribed. On the southern side, we find Maurus and Eleutherius, on the northern side, Acolyte and Projectus, while on the eastern side we can find Demetrius and Julian. The vault of the ciborium's dome is entirely covered with a light blue mosaic surface dotted with eight-pointed stars. A stone with a relief sculpture of a lamb has been inserted near the keystone.